Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Denver Kids Build Mental Resilience Through Soccer
DENVER – April 2, 2026 — Clubes de niños y niñas de Metro Denver is breaking new ground in youth mental health by becoming one of the first organizations in the United States to partner with Grassroot Soccer, an internationally recognized youth-development nonprofit rooted in Africa. The partnership brings an innovative, soccer-based mental wellness program to Denver youth—using movement, teamwork, and play to help kids build coping skills, emotional awareness, and resilience. Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Denver’s Mental Health Program team adapted the Grassroot Soccer curriculum specifically for Club kids, expanding the Clubs’ commitment to creating spaces where young people feel safe, supported, and empowered.
On Thursday, April 2, Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Denver and Grassroot Soccer will celebrate the first cohort of Club members to complete the 11‑week program—marking an important milestone in this global-to-local collaboration. The event offers a dynamic, visual opportunity to see how mental health skills are taught in ways that resonate with kids: on the field, in motion, and as a team.
At a time when youth mental health challenges are rising nationwide, this program equips young people with practical tools they can use every day—through connection, communication, and play. It also highlights a rare global partnership that brings proven, internationally developed programming to Denver neighborhoods.
For nearly 65 years, Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Denver has helped kids discover who they are—and who they can become. Serving thousands of young people each day across 25 neighborhood Clubs, the organization provides safe spaces, caring mentors, and enriching experiences in academics, the arts, leadership, and athletics. From kindergarten through high school graduation, Clubs support kids and teens every step of the way—helping them build confidence and a strong sense of belonging.
